So Your Toilet Won’t Flush

First of all, is it that your toilet will not flush or you don’t want to flush because it is CLOGGED and flushing it would cause it to overflow?  Today’s discussion is how to unplug your toilet. There are a number of reasons that would cause a toilet to plug.  From there is or was a disruption in the water supply to an obstruction inside the toilet or a more major problem as a sewer drain line plugged.  Main sewage line plugs are usually out of the realm and capability of the average home/small business owner and calling a plumbing professional is recommended.   

   

Note: Plugged toilets are very unsanitary and nature and I suggest that you take precautions to prevent being contaminated with what is inside the toilet.  First, it is always advisable to wear rubber gloves. Second, if the toilet is full of water drain it using a disposable cup and scooping the water into a 10 quart pail where you can later pour it back into the toilet after it is unclogged. Third, line the area around the toilet with news papers or old rags to protect the floor in case you splash. 

First thing I suggest is try to find out what is obstructing the toilet if you can.  Ask! There are only a few things that belong in the toilet - toilet bowl cleaner, toilet tissue, and human waste.  Anything else makes the toilet highly susceptible to a plug.  

Pliable objects such a toilet paper can usually be dislodged with a plunger and pushed on down the sewer drain.  Be aware that foreign objects, objects that don’t belong in a toilet, may be dislodge with a plunger but can cause a plug further down the sewer drain.  Most paper products absorb water and eventually dissolve with time and are usually not a problem.  

First, I would try a plunger.  There are different qualities of plungers, but I suggest that you spend a few dollars more and invest in a good one.  A good plunger is one that has an extra cone that extends past the plunger’s cup and further into the bowl for a better seal.  How a plunger works is that it pushes and pulls at the clog and dislodges it.

Don’t have a plunger? you may try using hot water to dislodge the clog.  I have not personally tried this method but I don’t doubt that it works if the toilet is plugged from using too much tissue and is draining slowly.  Usually there is a bath tub close by.  Run the water in the tub as hot as you can, get and fill a 10 quart pail with it and then at waist level pour it down the drained toilet.  After a few minutes the toilet paper should dissolve, free itself and go down the toilet.  Flush it once to ensure that the toilet is no longer clogged.

Another method, I think the best, is to invest in a toilet or closet auger, They cost as little as $10 for a cheap one to as much as $50 for a better more expensive model.  The closet auger cable is designed to go through the toilet completely and reach the toilet flange to free what is plugging the toilet.  More expensive models can be extended past the flange if necessary. Closet augers are handy because they can be used to retract/snag/grab items that are clogging the toilet. With the auger retracted so the tip of the auger is at the end of the guide and insert the tip of the auger and the curve of the guide into the bottom of the toilet drain.  Crank the auger in one direction gently pulling and pushing the cable in and out, if the cable is stuck then crank in the other direction until it frees itself.  Occasionally pull the cable all the way out to see if auger has attached itself to anything. Repeat this method until the auger has gone as far as it will go through the toilet and hopefully freeing the plug.  Never force the auger, the auger cable can break inside the toilet and or damage the toilet itself.  Flush the toilet to ensure that the clog is cleared then resume using.

After the clog is cleared, using one of the methods above, attempt to flush the toilet to see how quickly the water rushes into the bowl and the waste is flushed away.  If the toilet does not flush then take the toilet tank lid off and see if the water is reaching its proper level, usually indicated by a line inside the tank, check and see that the flush handle is not broken and attached to the flapper.  Toilets require an adequate amount of water to completely flush and remove the waste from the toilet bowl into the sewer drain lines. 

Flush the toilet and observe how long it takes for the toilet tank and bowl to refill.  Water should fill the tank at a steady rate and not too quickly, too much water pressure will damage the fill valve.  When the tank is filled to its proper level the toilet bowl should have reached its proper level as well.  

If the tank seems to be filling very slowly or the bowl does not fill properly and has a low water level then the flush value needs to be rebuilt or replaced.  If the tank seems to never stop filling, I recommend that you also inspect the flapper valve and if it is warped or deteriorated, replace it. 

If a solid object was put, dropped, or has fallen in the toilet then using a plunger or a toilet auger will not remedy the problem and removal of the toilet is required.  But before removing the toilet there are some supplies you need to replace the toilet. You can purchase these items from your local Home Depot, Lowe’s, or any hardware/home improvement store.  I suggest that you purchase at least one possibly two wax rings, a couple of packages of brass closet bolts, a roll of paper towel, some small plastic wedges in case leveling the toilet is required, and a couple of trash bags for waste.  Then you need some simple tools to remove the supply line from the toilet and toilet bowl from the floor.  I suggest that you have ready a pair of channel locks, small crescent wrench, screw driver, a small putty knife, a clothes hanger and or an  auger, a hack saw or bolt cutters  and possibly a hammer.

Removing a toilet is not complicated, but it can be helpful to have some help.  

First make sure you turn the toilet’s water supply off, The Valve is usually locate behind the toilet on the left side near the floor. now remove the tank lid and set it safely to the side.  

With a sponge or rag soak up and remove as much water as possible from the toilet tank by wringing out water in a pail.  Since the water inside the tank is clean and not contaminated it can be carefully dumped into a nearby bath tub or sink.  Then remove as much water and debris from the toilet bowl with a disposable cup into a small pail or bucket.

Now you’re ready to remove the toilet.  

With the channel locks  or crescent wrench carefully remove the tank supply line.  

Note:  sometimes for ease in removing the toilet it is wise to remove the toilet seat, but it is not necessary.  

Now remove the closet bolts caps and bolts nuts, cap washer and washer at the bottom of the toilet.

Rock the toilet from side to side to break the seal form by the wax ring under the toilet.  If possible, I suggest you carry the toilet outside for maintenance; first lay a trash bag spread out and put the toilet on its side or completely upside down on it.  Use the second trash bag for waste.  

Note: Be aware that with the toilet removed,  dangerous gases can escape from the closet drain. As a precaution it may be wise to stuff the drain with paper towels or a rag. However be careful you don’t lose the rag and stop up the drain.

Use the putty knife and paper towels to clean off the wax ring from the bottom of the toilet bowl and the from the toilet flange inside the bathroom.  Clean old caulking from the bottom of the toilet and or floor.

Now look up  and see if you can see what is lodged inside the toilet.  If you can see what is lodged in the toilet, use the screw driver, clothes hanger, and or auger to free the obstruction from the toilet.  If not, try using an auger to find and dislodge the object from the toilet.

Now it is time to reinstall the toilet.  Remove the old closet bolts and replace them with new ones, remove the rags/towels from the drain,  then lay the wax ring on top of the flange then pick up the toilet and carefully position the toilet over the flange and bolts and gently lower it onto the flange.  Loosely place toilet washer and nuts on bolts and firmly press the toilet down against the wax ring to seal.  Alternating sides evenly tighten the toilet down onto the flange take care not to over tighten bolts.  Over tightening bolts can result in damaging the toilet and or flange. Use the hack saw or bolt cutters to trim bolts and reinstall toilet caps.

If the toilet wobbles then insert plastic wedges under the base of the toilet and gently tap in the wedges until the toilet stops wobbling and is level.

Reinstall and turn on the tank supply line. Flush the toilet a number of times to ensure that it flushes properly and that there is no water leaking at the base of the toilet.  If the toilet leaks water between the base and floor this indicates the wax ring hasn’t made a seal. The toilet will have to be removed and the wax ring will have to be replaced a second time.  If no water exists then re-caulk the toilet base to the floor if needed, replace the tank lid,and toilet seat if removed and resume use.

Robert to the rescue.

Taking Care in One of Our Largest Investments

One of the largest investments we make is buying our homes. The best way to protect this investment is to perform routine maintenance such as regular repairs, inspections, and cleaning that either prevents and catches problems before they turn into major ones, but also keeps our home fresh and new. Routine maintenance and home improvement not only saves you money and protects your financial investment but provides a healthy, safe, and secure and happy place for your family to live. By taking care of your home, you can have the greatest of returns, not only financially- but emotional ones with priceless memories.
The value of you, taking charge of the routine maintenance, repair and home improvements is that you can do them as they are needed, ”again saving you money”, and that you can plan ahead for them. Most simple maintenance and repair issues can be performed by the home owner such as a dripping faucet, dirty filter, broken receptacle; broken window etc… major tasks such as re-roofing or repainting can be difficult if not impossible without the need of outside help. Performing your own repairs familiarizes you with knowing where and how to turn off your water, gas, and power supplies “that is helpful especially in an emergencies”, but it also enables you to also do the simple upgrades and replacement when needed, keeping your cost down and your home at it best.
Although you may like to think you can do it all, unfortunately it important to know your limitations. Sometimes it can be a very costly and a mistake to try to do the repairs/replacement yourself especially if it is out of the scope of what you can do and the law requires it to be performed by a license professional. The repairs involving gas, HVAC refrigerants, plumbing, sewage, drainage, and electrical or work where building codes require it to be supervised/performed by a licensed professional should ALWAYS be done by one. Trying to do it yourself can cost you time and money. Especially if the job is not done right resulting in a major safety hazards and property damages not to mention the possible fines and legal costs that may occur. Also it is really hard to look like a "hero" if your family has not been able to take a shower for 24hrs. It is best to stick to the basics unless you have the training to perform the higher level maintenance required, again I say know your limitations, and call for help when needed.
Routine maintenance is only one of the ways to keep your investment in your home safe. A time may come when you will have to consider protecting your investment by making necessary changes/improvement by getting extra money. For those home improvement projects that might be out of the scope and capabilities of the home owner, many people consider the option of seeking home improvement loans and having someone else do it for them. There are numerous resources out there for those who wish to get help in financing their home repairs and improvements. From an unsecured loan, line of credit or cashing out their home equity to getting VA/FHA loans from a government agency.
Taking care of your home is very important and routine maintenance should be all about saving you time and money and home improvements and remodeling keep your homes appeal high. But most of all, routine maintenance and repairs along with home improvement make your home a sound investment that does not only give you and family a wonderful place to live, but an investment that can grow.
Robert to the rescue

Uses for Peroxide

I received this in an Email and thought I would pass it along.

1. Take one capful (the little white cap that comes with the bottle) and hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out. (I do it when I bathe.) No more canker sores, and your teeth will be whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash...

2. Let your toothbrushes soak in a cup of peroxide to keep them free of germs.

3. Clean your counters and table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe down your countertops, or spray it on the counters directly.

4. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour peroxide on it to Kill salmonella and other bacteria.

5. I had fungus on my feet for years until I sprayed a 50/50 mixture of Peroxide and water on them (especially the toes) every night and let dry.

6. Soak any infections or cuts in 3% peroxide for five to ten minutes several times a day. My husband has seen gangrene that would not heal with any medicine but was healed by soaking in peroxide.

7. Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water and keep it in every bathroom to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will.

8. Tilt your head back and spray into nostrils with your 50/50 mixture whenever you have a cold, plugged sinus. It will bubble and help to kill the bacteria. Hold for a few minutes, and then blow your nose into a tissue.

9. If you have a terrible toothache and cannot get to a dentist right away, put a capful of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for ten minutes! several times a day. The pain will lessen greatly.

10. Put half a bottle of peroxide into your bath-water to help rid boils, fungus, or other skin infections.

11. You can also add a cup of peroxide instead of bleach to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them. If there is blood on clothing, pour it directly on the soiled spot. Let it sit for a minute, then rub it and rinse with cold water.

Repeat if necessary.

12. Use peroxide to clean my mirrors. There is no smearing, which is why I love it so much for this.

Oranges and Lemons

Oranges and Lemons are not only good to eat but they make a wonderful Garbage Disposal deodorizer as well. Simply put your Orange or Lemon peels in the disposal and turn on.

Home Equity Loans

There can be many good reasons for getting a home equity loan. One reason is that it is a great way of putting money back into perhaps your most secured investment, your home. A home equity loan is a great way of getting monies to perform major repairs or remodeling jobs to your home. If done wisely, this does not only improve the pleasure of your home, but its value as well. Major repairs or remodeling projects, such as a new roof or a new kitchen can increase the value of your home way above the cost of your loan. This can greatly increase the resale value of your home providing that other factors don’t keep or drag down the value of your home, such as the surrounding area or neighborhood.

Equity is what your home is worth over your first mortgage. You use the equity of your home as collateral, as a guarantee that you will pay back the lender the debt you owe or the lender can take your collateral, sell it, and get their money back.

There are two types of home equity loans. These loans are secondary loans, meaning that they are not the first principle loan/mortgage taken on your home. Most first mortgages are repaid over a 30 years. Home equity fixed loans and lines of credit are often referred to as second mortgages and are paid back at shorter lengths of time then the first mortgage often no more than a 15 year period.

The first type of home equity loan is a fixed rate loan that is given to the debtor as a onetime lump sum that is paid back over a predetermined length of time, usually 15 years, with a set payment predetermined by the lender.

The second type of home equity loan is offered as a revolving line of credit. Home equity lines of credit work much like a credit card that allows you to borrow a certain amount of money during the draw period, usually 5 to 10 years with a revolving balance. During that time you can borrow the money as you need it and as you pay down the principle you can borrow again on that line of credit. Home equity lines of credit or HELOC have revolving balance with variable interest rates that fluctuates over the life of the loan. With a home equity line of credit it is possible to remain in debt during the draw period by paying only the interest and not paying down the principal during the draw period. Repayment periods for HELOC’s are generally 10 to 15 years.

Note: With a second and/or third mortgage, home equity loans or lines of credit, you must pay of the balances when you sell your home.

Home improvement is perhaps one of the best reasons for a home equity loan. Why because it can be a high yield investment that is over and beyond the cost of your loan.

Often people take home equity loans for poor reasons that attack the security of one of their most secured investment, their home, to pay off unsecured debts – such as credit cards or to buy disposable items – such as vehicles, expensive electronics, dream vacations, etc… and recreating such problems rather than fixing them. Although it is often an attractive idea, it is very unwise to put your home at risk for things that lose value long before your home does.

Robert to the rescue.

The Popularity of Doing it Yourself

Home improvement stores have really grown in popularity. As our economy tightens and the cost of calling in a professional seems to be more and more costly, the small business and home owner are becoming more and more willing to educate themselves with the necessary skills to perform their own maintenance and repairs and spare themselves the high cost of a professional service. These skills can often be easily obtained by any number of sources via the internet, television, radio, and other Medias like books and magazines. More and more people are learning that given the aptitude and the mechanical ability that doing it yourself office and home improvements can be very rewarding, especially to your pocket book.
The secret in saving time and money around the home or office is not to wait until something happens. When a light does not light or when the toilet does not flush often not only does the anxiety go up, but so does the cost. When something does not work and you need it for something other than comfort it’s called an emergency and is often out of the realm of general repair. This is when a more seasoned skilled professional is called, often as an emergency call, and the cost of repairs soar. The secret in saving money is to do routine inspections and maintenance of the property you own or are renting.
I also believe that too many people don’t have a clue about their property. Like many car owners only know how to put the gas in the car and turn the key, many property owners only know how to pay the utilities, turn the key, and enter the property. What ends up happening when things are not right, they do not have a clue. I say get a clue and protect yourself from the high cost of emergency repairs to put things back right. KNOW YOUR PROPERTY. I often suggest that you walk your property; I will give you suggestions in a later post, and map where all the systems on your property exist- electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, gas, water, and fire and security alarm systems. Where all the breakers, fuses, values, batteries, monitoring and meters are so you can locate them when needed, This can aid you in maintaining them as needed as well as in emergencies knowing what to do.
It’s also important to have the simple tools and supplies available to perform the maintenance and repairs that are required around the home or office. A simple tool box does not have to be an intense one, However the better the selection and the tools you have the more you can do. It is also very important to know what your tools are for, it uses, and the proper safety precautions to take when using the tool. It is important to keep in mind that even with the best of tools that without the proper supplies and hardware required to do the job the less likely that the job can be done well. Always keep your tools and supplies in a location, inventoried to meet your needs so you can be ready for that simple job that can save you valuable time and money.
Robert to the Rescue.